Join Our TS Eliot Prize Shortlist Reading Group – Starting October 2026
This October, dive into the very best of contemporary poetry with our TS Eliot Prize Shortlist Reading Group. Each session, we’ll explore poems from two of the shortlisted collections at each session, discussing their themes, language, and impact. Whether you're a lifelong poetry lover or just starting out and curious to read more poetry, this is a welcoming space to read, reflect and connect through some of the most powerful voices in poetry today.
the man himself, T.S. Eliot
The shortlist of ten books is announced in early October each year. We will share the shortlist here when it’s announced.
Participants may wish to buy the books but there is no obligation to do so as we’ll hone in on a small number of representative poems from each collection which will be provided in a handout.
The prize shortlist readings take place at the Southbank Centre in early-mid January after the reading group has finished – why not treat yourself to a trip to London then to see your favourite poet read?!
In an age increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, taking time to read, think and talk about poetry is more vital than ever. Poetry asks us to slow down, to sit with ambiguity, and to engage deeply with language and emotion—things that resist automation. As machines get better at mimicking thought, the act of truly human thinking becomes a kind of determined resistance. You don’t have to be a poet or even an avid poetry reader to come along, you just need to have an interest in stretching your mind, sharpening your attention and celebrating the irreplaceable richness of human creativity, together.
Five sessions on Friday lunchtimes between late October and early January. Feel free to bring along your own lunch. Tea and coffee will be provided.
Each session runs 1pm – 2.45pm and will take place at a Stroud town centre venue - to be confirmed depending on numbers.
23rd October
13th November
27th November
11th December
8th January
Cost: £79 / £65 concessions.